NAIITS (Indigenous studies)

Explore theology, history and the practice of ministry from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and world Indigenous perspectives.

Traditionally, Native People did not talk about spirituality or faith, nor did they build complex theologies. They simply lived what they believed. It was expected that one would live in such a way as to acknowledge and honour their Creator. Theology was practice!

In the 21st century, much has changed. We still focus our energies on helping people walk out life in a good way. Now however, it is a path centered in the person, work, life, teaching, death and resurrection of Jesus that is also rooted in Indigenous cultures and histories. Whether in the development of new theologies or in our forums for dialogue and teaching, it is this understanding that we speak of as our path toward wholeness.

In these units, you are invited to:

Learn about the Bible when reading it using the insights of an Indigenous Perspective

Discover perspectives on history and church history from the experience and perspective of Indigenous peoples

Engage in the process of doing theology led by Indigenous Scholars

Reflect on the implications for ministry practice, not only amongst Indigenous communities but in all of our church and ministry contexts

We are proud to be offering the introductory units again in 2018, as well as introducing new units for continuing students. Indigenous and non-Indigenous people are welcome to study these units.

Customise your own award with an Indigenous emphasis

NAIITS units can be taken towards internationally recognised awards within the University of Divinity, such as:

Graduate Certificate (3 units)

Graduate Diploma (6 units)

Master of Theological Studies (12 units)

Master of Divinity (18 units)

Choose one or more of the NAIITS Masters level units to begin accredited studies with a focus on Indigenous theology and ministry. This can be your first step towards a Masters degree, with the potential to lead to PhD studies.

If you’re currently enrolled in another course (postgraduate or undergraduate), including at another university or institution, and would like to include one or more of these units, please contact Anne Mallaby (Dean) on 03 9340 8100 or amallaby@whitley.edu.au. Special conditions apply for undergraduate courses.

Introducing NAIITS

NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community (formerly known as the North American Institute for Indigenous Theological Studies) is dedicated to working together with Indigenous communities in the development and articulation of Indigenous perspectives in theology and practice.